3. The Importance of Being Earnest
Oscar Wilde’s sparkling comedy of manners has been delighting audiences for over a century, and this star-studded production is pure joy. Olly Alexander brings charm and wit to the role of Jack, Stephen Fry is in his element as the wise and wry Lady Bracknell, and Hugh Dennis delivers a Reverend Canon Chasuble with razor-sharp comic timing. With mistaken identities, scandalous secrets, and endless witty one-liners, The Importance of Being Earnest proves why Wilde is still the king of comedy.
4. The Play That Goes Wrong
Bring some painkillers, because you’re going to laugh so much your face is going to hurt. Having played at the Duchess Theatre for the past 11 years, The Play That Goes Wrong is the longest running comedy in the West End. The multi award-winning show follows a disastrously amateur dramatic society trying to stage a murder mystery. Set pieces collapse, actors forget lines, and nothing goes to plan – except the perfectly timed comedy. It’s chaotic, ridiculous, and one of the most reliably funny shows in London.
5. Starlight Express
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s high-octane hit is back, and it’s bigger and brighter than ever. Starlight Express tells the story of trains competing in a championship race – except the cast are on roller skates, zooming around the stage in dazzling costumes. With pop-rock anthems, jaw-dropping choreography, and a heartwarming story of underdogs chasing their dreams, it’s the ultimate feel-good family musical.
Whether you want laugh-out-loud comedy, star-studded drama, or musical spectacle, the West End this autumn has something to lift your spirits. Book your tickets, wrap up warm, and let the theatre keep you glowing long after the curtain falls.